Sorbic Acid
| Formula: | C₆H₈O₂ |
| CAS Number: | 110-44-1 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 205-768-7 |
| HS Code: | 29162300 |
| UN Number: | 3077 (Environmentally Hazardous Substance, solid, n.o.s.) |
| IUPAC Name: | (2E,4E)-Hexa-2,4-dienoic Acid |
| Also Known As: | 2,4-Hexadienoic Acid |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 112.13 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White crystalline powder |
| Odor: | Slight fatty / weak acid |
| Melting Point, °C: | 135–138 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | 228–230 |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 1.36 |
| Flash Point, °C: | 140 (closed cup) |
| Solubility: | Slightly soluble in water, soluble in ethanol and acetone |
| pH (1% solution): | ~3.0–4.0 |
| Purity, %: | ≥99.0 |
| Grades Available: | Food Grade, Technical Grade |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 500kg drums, bulk supply |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
-
Food preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and fungi in baked goods, cheese, beverages
-
Raw material in manufacturing of sorbate salts (potassium sorbate, calcium sorbate)
Secondary Applications
-
Used in cosmetics and personal care products for preservation
-
Intermediate in chemical synthesis
End Industries Served: Food & Beverage, Cosmetics, Pharmaceuticals, Chemical Manufacturing
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; may cause mild irritation
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
-
H319: Causes serious eye irritation (dust)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
-
P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
-
P261: Avoid breathing dust
-
P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water, remove contact lenses if present
Storage Conditions
-
Store in cool, dry, ventilated area
-
Protect from moisture and contamination
-
Keep packaging tightly closed
Transport Information
-
ADR/RID: UN3077, Class 9, PG III
-
IMDG: UN3077, Class 9, PG III
-
IATA: UN3077, Class 9, PG III